Who Should I Start? Zach Ertz or Jonnu Smith

Saturday, November 8, 5:41 PM

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz has had an underwhelming year in his 13th season in the league, catching 31 of his 44 targets for 291 yards and four touchdowns in nine games. Ertz has dropped more passes and had procedural penalties than you would expect from a veteran player, but it's been that kind of season for Washington. The 34-year-old tight end is still a capable threat in the red zone and on third downs, but he offers zero ability after the catch. Ertz has seen a slight drop off in production with Marcus Mariota as the starter compared to Jayden Daniels (elbow), who will miss an extended period of time. In Daniels' five starts, Ertz has recorded 22 catches for 216 yards and all four of his touchdowns on 30 targets, compared to nine catches, 75 yards, and no touchdowns on 13 targets in Mariota's three starts. Ertz is ranked as RotoBaller's TE14 in PPR leagues for Week 10 against the Lions.

Saturday, November 8, 12:12 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jonnu Smith has not eclipsed 30 receiving yards in any contest this season and will face a tough test against the Los Angeles Chargers this week. The Chargers' defense has been solid across the board, limiting opposing tight ends to the sixth-fewest fantasy points per game. On the bright side, Smith did earn five targets last week, tied for the second-most on the team. He could be equally or more involved in what's projected to be a close matchup on Sunday night, but it's hard to trust him with both Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington also earning opportunities. Smith checks in as the TE26 in RotoBaller's Week 10 rankings and should be avoided in most formats.